In 43 AD when Aulus Plautius began his conquest of Britain under Claudius’ reign Bath became an important link in the network of Roman roads, which were a major component in the Roman control of the province. The Fosse Way was built right through this important shine, an arrogant action most likely taken with the goal of disheartening the local tribes. Four roads met here and a military garrison was built to provide a means of regulating of the area. The military occupation probably only lasted about twenty years and then the soldiers moved on to other theaters of battle to the north.
In the wake of the military many camp followers and local traders remained at Aquae Sulis. They had constructed a victus, an unorganized grouping of buildings and shops. This was the basis for the construction of a major city.